If you’re craving a crispy, golden snack, look no further than this homemade chicken nuggets recipe. These tender bites of chicken are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and baked to perfection. They’re easy to make and taste far better than any store-bought version. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for a delightful treat that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Here is the list of ingredients.
– 2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes about 4 servings. Preparation time is 15 minutes, and cooking time is 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (about 5 nuggets) contains approximately 250 calories, 14g protein, 15g fat, 12g carbohydrates, and 2g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Set up a breading station: place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
- Season the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken piece in flour, coating it thoroughly.
- Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs.
- Finally, coat the chicken in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spray the nuggets lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier texture. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour instead of regular flour and gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Serving and Pairings
Serve these chicken nuggets with a variety of dipping sauces such as BBQ, honey mustard, or ranch dressing. They pair well with fresh vegetable sticks or a crisp salad.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover chicken nuggets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Yes, they can also be frozen for up to 2 months.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcrowd the baking sheet; nuggets need space to crisp up.
- Ensure the oil spray is even for a golden finish.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness (165°F or 74°C).
- Don’t skip seasoning the flour; it adds flavor.
- Avoid overcooking; they can become dry.
Helpful Tips
- For extra crunch, double-dip the nuggets in egg and breadcrumbs.
- Experiment with different spices for unique flavors.
- Let the chicken sit in the fridge for 30 minutes before baking for better adherence of the coating.
- Consider using panko breadcrumbs for an even crunchier texture.
FAQs
Can I make chicken nuggets in advance?
Yes, you can prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge until ready to bake. They can also be frozen and baked from frozen, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
What dipping sauces go well with chicken nuggets?
Popular choices include BBQ sauce, honey mustard, ranch dressing, and sweet and sour sauce. Feel free to get creative with your favorites!
Can I air fry these chicken nuggets?
Absolutely! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
What can I serve with chicken nuggets?
Chicken nuggets pair well with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. They also make a great addition to a kids’ party platter.
How can I make chicken nuggets healthier?
To make them healthier, bake instead of frying and use whole grain breadcrumbs. You can also try using a mixture of ground oats and spices for a coating.
Conclusion
This chicken nuggets recipe is a fantastic way to bring a beloved favorite into your home kitchen. Enjoy the crispy, delicious results that are sure to please everyone at the table. With simple ingredients and an easy preparation method, you can create a batch of delicious nuggets that are perfect for any occasion.
Chicken Nuggets Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper.
- Set up a breading station: place flour, beaten eggs, and breadcrumbs in separate bowls.
- Season the flour with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Dip each chicken piece in flour, coating it thoroughly.
- Next, dip the floured chicken into the beaten eggs.
- Finally, coat the chicken in breadcrumbs, pressing lightly to adhere.
- Place the coated chicken nuggets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Spray the nuggets lightly with cooking spray for extra crispiness.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
